Curator’s statement
Puerto Rico has it all, which is why it's been on my bucket list for a long time. My friend and I decided to go on a girls' trip to celebrate our birthdays and we have very different travel styles. I like to see as much as possible and enjoy active/adventure travel, while she loves to relax on the beach and check out local cuisine and historical sites. Puerto Rico did not disappoint and we were both able to find activities that we enjoyed. Although it's impossible to explore everything that the island has to offer in a week, we focused our stay to San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital, which has a great combination of city and nature activities. Because there's so much to do, it makes it a fantastic destination for girls' trips, family travel, honeymoons and even solo travel. Whatever your travel style, Puerto Rico is sure to deliver.
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Where to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico
El Yunque
Hike the only tropical forest in the US. There is some serious mud along the hike, so make sure you bring comfortable closed-toe shoes that you don't mind getting them ruined. You can't leave El Yunque without the high-adrenaline slide down the waterfalls.
Bioluminescent Bays
There are three bio bays in Puerto Rico, with Mosquito Bay being the brightest in the entire world. The best way to experience this natural wonder is by kayaking at night. If it's too cloudy and the weather doesn't cooperate, you can still enjoy a fantastic nature and astronomy lesson and learn about the local habitats.
El Morro Fortress
Built in 1539 — and it took 200 years to complete — El Morro has some of the most stunning views in San Juan. Aside from learning about the long history and walking around this massive fortress, the grassy entrance is a great place to have a picnic, relax and enjoy the views.
Old San Juan
This historical neighborhood has stunning architecture and brightly colored buildings. You can find many delicious food options or walk around to the plaza where you can take pictures around the I <3 SJ sign. Make sure to stroll to Fortaleza Street, better known as Umbrella Street, which is the iconic street featured in movies and music videos.
T-Mobile District
Although this has an outdoor mall feel to it, it's anything but. The T-Mobile District is a place to enjoy amazing live music, both in the main stage area and inside the many restaurants. There's also an arcade and a short zip line that crosses the length of the district.
Places to eat & drink in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Gingambo: Overlooking the beach at the Marriott Stellaris, the view is only one of the reasons to check out this outdoor restaurant. The outstanding menu is the other reason. Savor mofongo, a local favorite made with plantains, or try a variety of seafood options with a Puerto Rico flalir.
Breakfast / Lunch
Chocobar: This is a fantastic way to start your day, especially if you love chocolate. Most drinks, from coffee to beer, contain chocolate. The ham croquetas are to die for.
Lunch / Dinner
Arena Medalla: Located in the T-Mobile District, the menu includes local favorites — try the tostones and churrasco burrito — as well as hamburgers and chicken wings. Check it out at night for amazing live music, along with pool tables and other fun activities.
Night
Try bar-hopping while in the Santurce neighborhood. It's difficult to recommend a single place, so you can try different food and drink options at a number of bars in Santurce. As you go from bar to bar, you'll enjoy seeing all the street art that Santurce is famous for.
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Travel Advisor
Gabriela Cervantes
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Puerto Rico.